Swayn Renovation

Conversion of a single story commercial building in St. Louis’ Central West End neighborhood, to a single family residence for an Australian architect who lives in St. Louis part of the year.

The central design challenge was to add a second level to the structure while complying with local historic district standards. The solution involved extending the plane of an existing gable roof over the front part of the building. This formed a ‘para-building’ on the roof that contains the new master suite. The structure was held back from the Euclid street edge, so that the new form is only visible in long views down the street. A large south facing window at the end of the roof form brings light into both the master suite and down into the main living space through a slot in the floor.

AWARDS

First Place: Residential Architecture – Less than 3,000SF, St. Louis At Home Magazine 2014 Architect and Designer Awards

First Place: Remodel Project, St. Louis At Home Magazine 2014 Architect and Designer Awards

First Place: Addition Project, St. Louis At Home Magazine 2014 Architect and Designer Awards

” The transformation of this small commercial building into a residence is a textbook way to preserve a perfectly good building and at the same time create a great residence. The existing building didn’t hinder the architect, thus creating an ideal living environment.”

” This is a beautiful solution to the complexities of historic preservation codes. The subtle shift in the roof creates a new space which peaks above the existing yellow brick wall, contrasting and highlighting the beauty of the old, while creating something new. An excellent diagram for other architects when repurposing historic structures.”

” A contemporary twist to a historic building successfully achieving something very difficult: adding a subtle yet distinct design element to an old structure maintaining the historic character.”